Lecture Notes: John F. Kennedy and the Cold War

Introduction

• John F. Kennedy (JFK) emerged as a new political figure from Massachusetts.
• Known for his charisma, looks, and ability to connect with the public.
• Kennedy's political style was a mix of ideology and image, appealing to voters like a national celebrity.

1960 Presidential Campaign

• Kennedy ran against Richard Nixon, the incumbent vice president.
• The campaign was historic due to its televised debates, which Kennedy used to his advantage.
• Kennedy's message: a new leader for the 1960s.
• Narrowly won the election, becoming the 35th President.

The Cold War Context

• The Cold War was a global struggle between the USA and the Soviet Union, democracy vs. communism.
• The USA adopted a policy of containment to stop the spread of communism.
• Proxy wars occurred globally, with nuclear weapons being a significant threat.

The Cuban Context

• Cuba, under Fidel Castro, aligned with the Soviet Union after the overthrow of Batista.
• Castro's Cuba posed a direct threat 90 miles off the coast of the USA.
• JFK inherited a CIA plan for a Cuban invasion, resulting in the failed Bay of Pigs invasion.

The Cuban Missile Crisis

• Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, a direct threat to the USA.
• JFK convened a secret group, XCOM, to decide on a response.
• The USA imposed a naval "quarantine" on Cuba, escalating tensions.
• Close calls included a near launch of nuclear torpedoes from a Soviet submarine.

Resolution of the Crisis

• The crisis reached a peak with the shooting down of a U2 plane and the shadow of nuclear war looming.
• Secret deal: Soviets remove missiles from Cuba, USA pledges not to invade Cuba and removes missiles from Turkey.
• The crisis ended with only one combat casualty, Major Rudolph Anderson.

Aftermath and Legacy

• The Cuban Missile Crisis prompted a shift towards diplomacy and peace between superpowers.
• JFK's speech at American University emphasized genuine peace over power politics.
• The crisis marked a turning point in Cold War relations, though tensions remained.